GOV. DAUGAARD APPOINTS GILL AS SECRETARY OF HUMAN SERVICES


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            Office of Gov. Dennis Daugaard
500 E. Capitol Ave.
Pierre, S.D. 57501
(605) 773-3212
www.sd.gov
 
 
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Wednesday, May 11, 2011
CONTACT:  Tony Venhuizen or Joe Kafka at 605-773-3212
 
GOV. DAUGAARD APPOINTS GILL AS SECRETARY OF HUMAN SERVICES
PIERRE, S.D.Gov. Dennis Daugaard today announced the appointment of Laurie Gill of Pierre to be South Dakota Secretary of Human Services.
 
“Laurie Gill will be a great Secretary of Human Services,” the Governor said.  “Her experience in non-profit health care and state and municipal government makes her an ideal choice for this important post.”
 
Gill is currently clinic administrator at Avera Medical Associates Clinic in Pierre, a position she has held since 2010.  From 1997 to 2010, Gill worked in the state Department of Health, serving as deputy secretary from 2006 to 2010.  Prior to that, she worked as business manager for Capital Area Counseling in Pierre and for SDSU Student Publications in Brookings.
 
“I am a public servant at heart, and this is a good fit for me,” Gill said.  “I have a passion for human services and the programs the department administers and oversees, and I’m excited to join Gov. Daugaard’s team.”
 
Gill was elected Mayor of Pierre in 2008, and was recently re-elected without opposition to a second three-year term.  She served on the Pierre City Commission from 1999 to 2008.  Gill serves on boards of the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce, Capital University Center, Oahe Public Access Channel, and the South Dakota Municipal League; she also is a member of the Capitol Complex Restoration and Beautification Commission.
Gill will assume her duties as Secretary of Human Services June 13.  Since her position as Mayor is part-time, she will continue to serve in that office after she becomes Secretary.
 
Gill will replace Amy Iverson-Pollreisz, who has served as interim secretary since January.  Iverson-Pollreisz has accepted a position as a Deputy Secretary in the Department of Social Services.
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